As the holiday season approaches, many of us are filled with excitement and anticipation. The smell of freshly baked cookies wafts through the air, and the sound of sizzling turkeys in the oven signals that it’s time to gather around the table with loved ones. But what makes the holidays truly special is the delicious food that brings everyone together.
In this article, we’ll share 20 festive holiday recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, and from gingerbread cookies with icing to caramel apple crisp, these dishes are perfect for any holiday gathering. Whether you’re hosting a small dinner party or a large Christmas feast, we’ve got you covered with recipes that are sure to impress.
Classic Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
This tried-and-true recipe yields a moist and flavorful roasted turkey, perfectly seasoned with the brightness of fresh herbs. A compound butter made with parsley, thyme, and lemon zest adds an aromatic and savory touch to this show-stopping centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, and lemon juice.
4. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe brings together the richness of ham, the sweetness of honey, and the tanginess of pineapple. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1 fresh pineapple ring, about 1 inch thick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover evenly.
5. Top with the pineapple ring.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy garlic mashed potato recipe, topped off with a savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gravy:
+ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
+ 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and mash with butter, garlic, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. For the gravy:
– In a small saucepan, whisk together flour and broth.
– Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Serve mashed potatoes topped with warm gravy.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Creamy Green Bean Casserole
This classic recipe combines tender green beans with a rich and creamy sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. A comforting side dish perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cream, milk, black pepper, and salt. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked green beans to the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Pour the bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with French-fried onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until onions are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
This sweet and savory casserole is a staple at many holiday gatherings, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the gooey goodness of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Add a burst of tangy flavor to your holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make homemade cranberry sauce recipe. This classic condiment is perfect for topping turkey, dressing up yogurt parfaits, or serving alongside crackers and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 orange, peeled and sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the sliced orange, if using (the bright citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries).
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Traditional Stuffing with Sage
Traditional Stuffing with Sage Recipe
This classic stuffing recipe combines tender bread with savory aromas from sage and onions, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a standalone side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, chopped sage leaves, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes and sautéed mixture. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts by roasting them with crispy bacon, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked bacon, tossing to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls
Savor the warmth of homemade dinner rolls with this simple recipe that yields soft, buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired roll shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
Celebrate the fall season with this timeless pumpkin pie recipe, topped with a dollop of creamy whipped cream. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour pumpkin mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
7. Let cool completely before serving with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pecan Pie with Caramel Drizzle
This classic Southern dessert gets a sweet twist with the addition of a gooey caramel drizzle. A perfect treat for special occasions or everyday indulgence, this pecan pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Caramel drizzle ingredients: 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Stir in pecan halves until well coated.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour pecan mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow pie to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce (heat cream, butter, and brown sugar over low heat, stirring until smooth).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Icing
Classic gingerbread cookies are a holiday staple, filled with warm spices and sweet molasses. This recipe brings together the perfect combination of flavors to create a delicious treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Molasses or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Icing:
– Powdered sugar
– Milk or water
Mix powdered sugar and milk/water to desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Eggnog Cheesecake
Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe
This creamy and rich cheesecake combines the warm spices of eggnog with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in eggnog, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until center is set.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Brighten up your holiday season with this refreshing and delicious Peppermint Chocolate Bark recipe. Crunchy peppermint candies and chocolate come together in perfect harmony to create a festive treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (such as Andes Mints)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable oil)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top of the white chocolate.
5. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl, following the same melting process as before.
6. Drizzle the melted milk chocolate over the peppermint candies and white chocolate.
7. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Enjoy your festive Peppermint Chocolate Bark!
Apple Cider Donuts
These soft, fluffy donuts infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider are perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, combine milk, apple cider, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm up with this festive and aromatic Spiced Mulled Wine recipe, perfect for the holiday season. This classic winter warmer is infused with a blend of warming spices and fragrant citrus, creating a cozy and inviting drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
6. Strain the wine into individual mugs or a serving jug.
7. Serve hot, garnished with an additional orange slice if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Thinly sliced potatoes, melted cheese, and a hint of cream come together to create a side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes and salt. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Create a layer of potatoes in the dish, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and a drizzle of heavy cream. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic that’s sure to please! This recipe yields a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramel Apple Crisp
Sweet and tangy caramel apples meet a crunchy oat topping in this delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Pour in heavy cream and mix until apples are well-coated.
4. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped walnuts (if using), and unsalted butter. Mix until crumbly.
6. Spread oat topping evenly over the apple filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Festive Holiday Punch
Add a touch of cheer to your holiday gathering with this festive punch recipe! Made with a blend of juices, spices, and sparkling water, it’s the perfect drink to serve at your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/2 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Sliced oranges, lemons, and limes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, orange juice, and cranberry juice.
2. Add ginger ale and sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
3. Add ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir again to distribute spices evenly.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced citrus fruits.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and serve.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of the season with these 20 delicious and festive holiday recipes! From classic roast turkey with herb butter to sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at traditional stuffing with sage or roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. Don’t forget to save room for dessert with pumpkin pie with whipped cream, pecan pie with caramel drizzle, and more! These mouthwatering dishes are sure to make your holiday gathering a memorable one.
